Anthonomus squamans
This record describes Anthonomus squamans (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
highly variable in size, color and markings; larger specimens tend to have distinct color patterns and a more dense scale covering, in smaller specimens the scales are usually unicolored and less dense Type Locality: Mexico, Vera Cruz
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Curculionidae (Snout and Bark Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Curculioninae
- Tribe
- Anthonomini
- Genus
- Anthonomus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
TX (Dallas) to e.Mex. - Map , uncommon
Diet and Behavior
Life History
on var. mallows: Callirhoae, Malachra, Malvastrum, Sida, Sphaeralcea (Malvaceae)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Anthonomus squamans Champion 1903 squamans = 'scaled
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Anthonomus squamans. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Anthonomus squamans (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Anthonomus squamans
What is Anthonomus squamans?
Anthonomus squamans is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Anthonomus squamans?
highly variable in size, color and markings; larger specimens tend to have distinct color patterns and a more dense scale covering, in smaller specimens the scales are usually unicolored and less dense
Where is Anthonomus squamans found?
Range: TX (Dallas) to e.Mex. - Map , uncommon
What is the life cycle of a Anthonomus squamans?
on var. mallows: Callirhoae, Malachra, Malvastrum, Sida, Sphaeralcea (Malvaceae)